J.J. Watt is off the board for the Green Bay Packers, of course. But his landing with the Arizona Cardinals increases their chances of signing one of the next best options, Haason Reddick, who may have just become expendable.
With the Packers’ subpar defensive line performance this season, they should look to add more firepower through free agency. Look no further than Reddick, who had a superb 2020. It may have been virtually unnoticed because he was considered something of a bust for his first three years in the NFL. The Temple standout was the first linebacker drafted in 2017.
He saw playing time come and go throughout his first three years and never found a consistent role in Arizona’s defense. Reddick never panned out as an inside linebacker, but a switch to the outside completely rejuvenated his career.
In 2020 Reddick totaled 12.5 sacks and a stunning six forced fumbles. In just one year, he doubled his career numbers in almost every statistic. Through Weeks 10-17 of the 2020 season, Reddick posted the best PFF pass-rush grade from all edge rushers, and in just one game against the New York Giants, he totaled five sacks and three forced fumbles.
This was not the same Giants offensive line that opponents dominated early in the season. This was when their offensive line was regarded as one of the most improved units in the league. Though it was still not great by any means — New York’s o-line finished 30th in PFF stats — it is impressive to do this against any NFL team.
This is a rare leap forward for a fourth-year player. While some may argue that his success was due to lining up alongside Chandler Jones, it is actually the opposite. Jones was coming off a 19-sack season but only played in five games this year before getting injured. But even after a career year, Arizona declined the fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
To add insult to injury, the Cardinals picked up Watt from the embattled Houston Texans organization, reuniting him with Deandre Hopkins. With the Packers rumored to be interested in Watt when he was available, it makes perfect sense to take the next best option.
Ironically, Reddick actually had a much more productive season than Watt, more than doubling his sack count last year even though Reddick was splitting snaps between the defensive line and dropping back in coverage as a hybrid linebacker. He was anticipated to fill Isaiah Simmons‘s role, even though he did not have experience lining up everywhere Simmons did.
He’s always been a versatile player. He played running back and safety during his freshman year at Temple, and Reddick could be a pass rusher and a linebacker in the Packers’ defense. Plus, he’s is only 26 years old and should be entering his prime.
However, there may be some downsides to signing Reddick. He’s only has had one good NFL season and may not get the large contract he expects. If he demands too much, it would be unwise for many teams in a tight cap situation like the Packers to take this risk.
But with Reddick’s versatility and skillset, he actually could be a perfect fit for their defense, filling multiple needs. If they can get on him early, they could get him for value.
